Finland – First Class Medal of the Order of the White Rose with Golden Cross (1949 Issue, "U6" Date Code, Kalevala Koru Helsinki Hallmark)
Key Specifications
Established: January 28, 1919, by Carl Gustaf Emil Mannerheim
Material: Silver with gilt cross
Diameter: 30.16 mm
Edge Markings:
"Crown" – National hallmark of Finland
"813A" – Silver fineness (81.3% pure silver)
"U6" – 1949 Finland Date Code (confirming production year)
Maker’s Mark: Kalevala Koru Helsinki (Renowned Finnish jewelry manufacturer, known for high-quality craftsmanship in national decorations and medals)
Design Features
Obverse (Front) Details
Circular silver medal with a gilded cross in the center, denoting First-Class status.
Crafted by Kalevala Koru Helsinki, a prominent Finnish jewelry maker known for producing high-quality Finnish orders and decorations.
Reverse (Back) Details
Top Rays: Decorative rays symbolizing glory and distinction.
Central Design:
Sword & Laurel Leaf: Representing military strength, courage, and honor.
Bottom Inscription: "ISÄNMAAN HYVÄKSI" (For the Good of the Fatherland), reinforcing the medal’s purpose of recognizing exceptional service to Finland.
Ribbon is in poor condition (please refer to the provided pictures for details).
Historical Background (1919–1949)
The Order of the White Rose of Finland replaced the Order of the Cross of Liberty and was awarded for exceptional contributions in both military and civilian service.
By 1949, Finland was in the process of rebuilding after World War II, and this medal was awarded to individuals who had shown remarkable service in post-war reconstruction, governance, diplomacy, and defense.
President Juho Kusti Paasikivi (1946–1956) was the Grand Master of the Order at the time.
Foreign recipients in 1949 often included diplomats and military personnel who contributed to Finland’s international relations and recovery efforts.
Award Criteria (1949 Edition)
Military & Civilian Awards:
Recognized outstanding contributions to the Finnish nation.
Given to Finnish citizens and foreign dignitaries for merit in governance, military service, or diplomacy.
Hierarchy:
This First Class Medal with Golden Cross was a high-ranking award for non-officer personnel and civilians.
It ranked above the standard First-Class Medal and was just below Knight 1st Class in prestige.
Significance of the 1949 Production Year
Post-WWII Recovery: Finland was in the process of rebuilding its economy and international relations.
Cold War Era: Finland had to navigate its relationship between the Soviet Union and Western nations.
Foreign Relations: Many foreign diplomats, military officials, and peace negotiators received Finnish orders.
This 1949 Finland First Class Medal of the Order of the White Rose with Golden Cross is a prestigious and historically significant decoration, representing Finland’s resilience and international diplomacy in the post-war era.
For authentication and valuation, please refer to provided pictures to assess hallmarks, ribbon condition, and enamel details.